Enhancing modular construction supply chain: Drivers, opportunities, constraints, concerns, strategies, and measures

Abstract

Modular construction (MC) plays a pivotal role in fostering sustainable development. However, the promotion of MC in many jurisdictions has been encumbered by its prevailing undeveloped supply chain. This study aims to systematically explore the drivers, opportunities, constraints, concerns, strategies, and measures with regard to enhancing the MC supply chain, using the empirical case of modular integrated construction in Hong Kong and the supply chain in the Greater Bay Area of China. The research was conducted through the combination of a literature review, a questionnaire survey with 244 effective responses, and 46 expert interviews. A systematic framework with foremost drivers, opportunities, constraints, concerns, strategies, and measures is proposed for guiding MC supply chain enhancement from technical, political and regulatory, socio-economic, and geographical perspectives. The findings contribute to better understanding the complexity and dynamics of the MC supply chain and guide stakeholders to work collaboratively for supply chain enhancement.